Lexapro

LEXAPRO DRUG INFORMATION

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Lexapro

USES:

This medication is used in the treatment of depression. It is in a class of antidepressants or mood elevators called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The way this medication works is by increasing the amount of serotonin, which is a natural substance in the brain that aids to maintain mental balance. This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

HOW TO USE:

This medication comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth, usually once a day with or without food depending on personal preference. To help you remember to take your medication, take it around the same time every day, either in the morning or in the evening. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully. Take this medication only as directed by your doctor, and consult him or her if you do not understand the dosing instructions. Never take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. You may be started on a low dose of escitalopram and after one week your doctor may increase your dose.

It may take 1-4 weeks or longer before a patient feels the full benefit of this medication, and he or she should continue to take this medication even if you feel well. Never stop taking escitalopram without prior approval from your doctor, especially if you have taken large doses for a long period of time. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually.

SIDE EFFECTS:

This medication may cause some side effects. Consult your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation, changes in sex drive or ability, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, drowsiness, increased sweating, dizziness, heartburn, stomach pain, excessive tiredness, dry mouth, increased appetite, flu-like symptoms, runny nose, or sneezing. Some side effects can be serious, while these symptoms are uncommon you should contact your doctor immediately if you experience and of the following: unusual excitement or hallucinations. Escitalopram may cause other side effects; contact your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

PRECAUTIONS:

Before taking escitalopram, tell your doctor or pharmacist about any allergic reactions to escitalopram, citalopram (Celexa), or any other medications. Do not take this medication if you are taking an MAO inhibitor such as phenelzine (Nardil) or tranylcypromine (Parnate) or have stopped taking them in the last 2 weeks. This medication is very similar to another SSRI, citalopram (Celexa). These two medications should not be taken together. Tell your doctor or pharmacist all of the prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. It is important to mention anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin); antihistamines; carbamazepine (Tegretol); cimetidine (Tagamet); ketoconazole (Sporanox); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid, Lithotabs); medications for anxiety, mental illness, or seizures; metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL); other antidepressants such as desipramine (Norpramin); sedatives; sleeping pills; sumatriptan (Imitrex); and tranquilizers. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects, while taking any combination of escitalopram and any of the medications mentioned.

Consult your doctor if you have recently had a heart attack and if you have or have ever had bipolar disorder; seizures; or liver, kidney, thyroid, or heart disease. Women who are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding need to consult their doctor if you. If you become pregnant while taking escitalopram, contact your doctor promptly. Consult your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication, if you are having surgery, including dental surgery. It is recommended not to drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you, because of the risk this medication may make you drowsy. Alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication.

OVERDOSE:

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency room. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911. The symptoms of overdose may include: dizziness, sweating, upset stomach, vomiting, tremor, drowsiness, fast or pounding heartbeat, seizures, confusion, forgetfulness, fast breathing, and coma.

NOTES:

It is important to keep all of your appointments with your doctor. Never let anyone else take any of your prescription medication.

MISSED DOSE:

In the event that you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember before it is close to time to take your next dose, then simply skip it and resume taking as scheduled. It is important never to “double-up” on this medication.

STORAGE:

It is important to keep this medication tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Throw away any medication that has expired.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

This information is not intended to replace the knowledge and skills of a qualified healthcare provider. While the following can be a valuable resource, this drug may not be safe or effective for everyone. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking any prescription medication.